Post by : Bianca
Haleem
In the first quarter of 2026, the UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism effectively blocked 13,667 websites that were violating copyright laws, marking a striking increase of nearly 400% compared to last year.
Since the implementation of the InstaBlock Lab in February 2025, the total blocked has reached 47,667 illegal websites. This advanced system utilizes artificial intelligence to monitor digital platforms in real-time, expediting the processing of copyright infringement complaints associated with creative content and digital broadcasting.
Dr. Abdulrahman Hassan Al Muaini, Assistant Undersecretary for the Intellectual Property Sector, emphasized that this initiative reflects the UAE’s firm resolve in safeguarding intellectual property. He noted that these efforts foster a secure digital ecosystem conducive to innovation and global competitiveness.
The Ministry collaborated with the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority alongside partners such as Abu Dhabi Media Network, MBC Shahid, OSN, Yango Play, STARZPLAY, the Brand Owner Council, and Nissan Middle East.
Enforcement operations intensified during Ramadan, when broadcasting violations surged. The number of blocked websites soared from 62 in 2023 to 1,117 in 2024, 2,217 in 2025, and reached 5,677 in 2026.
In tandem with enforcement, the campaign also aimed to enhance public awareness regarding the importance of using only licensed and authorized sources for digital content. These initiatives are part of the “We the UAE 2031” vision aimed at bolstering the knowledge-based economy and elevating the country’s global position in the digital content realm.
English
